When the news broke that another Top Chef-run restaurant was opening in Jersey City, excitement ensued, per usual. BUT, when it turned out to be Leah Cohen of Manhattan’s Pig and Khao, it was an all out celebration. Leah Cohen, who you might know from Top Chef Season 5, is not just a reality TV star, but she also trained at the CIA {culinary institute for all you Homeland fans who thought we were talking about government agencies} and has worked at famed Eleven Madison Park. Her food is influenced by her Filipino background and her new spot, Piggyback Bar, lends that influence to Gastropub fare. Piggyback Bar opened recently in Jersey City, and we’re sharing a peek inside its deliciousness {with a side of NYC views}:
^Views from inside Piggyback Bar in JC
When Leah and husband/business partner Ben Byruch were looking to open a second restaurant, they came to Jersey City for the first time. After learning that they could be a part of something brand new and hearing the plans developer Mack-Cali had for the space {expect more places to pop up this year}, they felt like it was the perfect fit for their next restaurant. Truth be told, the couple was so excited about what Jersey City had to offer that they actually decided to move to JC as well.
We got the chance to sit down with Leah and check out the new space, located in the bottom of Harborside, and were VERY impressed. For those not familiar, yes Harborside is an office building, but it houses Piggyback and a few other spots {more on that here}.
Drinks + Location
The Piggyback menu has a ton of small plates and sandwiches lends itself nicely to a group dinner. There’s a solid cocktail list and a good selection of local beers. With it being only a few steps from the Exchange Place PATH station and the new NY Waterway ferry, you may even be able to convince your Manhattan friends to meet you here {we know, it takes a LOT #eyeroll}. Being it *is* in the bottom of an office building, you’ll find a good happy hour vibe and specials that last till 7:30PM — including apps + $8 cocktails.
^Chili Dog in all its glory
The {Awesome} Food
On to the main event: THE FOOD. For starters, the Disco Phories are a fan favorite — a must-order and the perfect bar snack to split {offered on the happy hour menu}. Crispy waffle fries topped with cheese, braised short rib that melts in your mouth, pho gravy, and chilis make for the ultimate comfort food. The Grain Salad {toasted barley, asian pears, arugula and mint} was fresh — but still hearty — and the toasted barley gave a bit of a crunch. Another noteworthy pick: oysters and a daily ceviche.
^Phoires
^The Grain Salad {with a touch of fried onions so we can be happy whilst attempting healthy eating}
Sandwiches and fries are another must if you’re in the mood. The croque monsieur is filled with gooey cheese and hunks of smoked ham and a pineapple accompaniment that is so good you’ll want to lick the plate clean. And while the Phories are delish, the fries that come with the sandwiches are standout as well: Thinly cut with a togarashi salt that give just the right amount of spice, they make getting a sandwich here worth it. Tables are set up with ketchup, mayo, and a sriracha so you can make your own spicy dipping sauces. For dessert, the S’mores Sundae is #worthit.
^Croque Monsieur {THAT CHEESE THO}
^S’mores Sundae {Droolz.}
Piggyback also has brunch — a unique menu with Asian spin on traditional brunch dishes {and some OGs, too}. The lobster benny is served on a thick piece of toast topped with a yuzu hollandaise {and you’ll die a happy woman/man after this, promise}. And forget about bagels; Piggyback has a classic bacon, egg, and cheese is served on a scallion pancake accompanied by a tangy tomato jam that is something to seriously write home about.
^Lobster Benny {YUM}
^Scallion Pancake Bacon, Egg, & Cheese
As far as ambiance, for the nicer months, there’s outdoor seating — and did we mention the views? J’amaze. But whether you’re heading to Piggyback Bar for happy hour, dinner, or brunch it’s bound to be a memorable {read: cheesy} meal, promise.
Once you’re done drooling over our pics, head over to Piggyback Bar located at 200 Hudson St. in Jersey City. Let us know what you think of the spot, and tag us on Instagram @HobokenGirlBlog and #HobokenGirl. Happy noshing!
